Duct Testing: Boost Your Delivery System's Potential

By
Blanton's Air, Plumbing & Electric
|November 08, 2017

Your duct system plays a vital role in the overall energy efficiency of
your home, and it needs occasional testing to determine if it’s
functioning at an optimal level. When duct testing is done by a qualified
professional, you ensure that your ductwork operates at peak efficiency,
and avoid wasting energy due to air leaks. The service technician will
likely use one of two methods to test your system.

Pressurization subtraction: This method involves setting up a large fan
in a exterior doorway and depressurizing the house. The technician performs
this test twice and take measurements each time; once with the supply
and return vents open, and once when they are sealed off. The difference
between the two measurements indicates the leakiness of the ductwork.

Duct-blower test: This procedure sees the service professional use a small
portable fan to pressurizes the duct system.The fan is connected to the
system near the air handler of the heating and cooling unit. The technician
will take readings from various gauges as the fan operates to determine
the leakiness of the ductwork.

Duct testing can take place at any time, but is especially recommended
when new heating and cooling equipment is installed. After the testing
takes place, the technician seals any air leaks and makes other necessary
repairs, such as reconnecting ductwork sections where the joints have
failed. He might also suggest that you upgrade to a larger size system
if your ducts are too small. Undersized ductwork can cause various problems,
including noisy operation and poor energy efficiency.

Duct testing can prevent energy losses that can reach up to 30 percent
in some cases, making it an important part of reducing your utility bills.
For more information on testing your ductwork, and other issues related
to home comfort, contact us at
Blanton’s Heating & A/C. We have served the greater Fayetteville area since 1951.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Fayetteville, North Carolina
and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to
HVAC systems).